Trip to New Delhi
New Delhi, Asia · DEL
New Delhi, the capital of India, pulses with a different energy than its sprawling neighbor, Delhi. While often used interchangeably, New Delhi is a meticulously planned city, a stark contrast to the ancient, labyrinthine Old Delhi. Here, wide avenues are lined with colonial-era buildings and verdant parks. The pace can feel more organized, yet beneath the surface, a vibrant, chaotic spirit thrives. It's a city of grand monuments and quiet residential enclaves, where the 21st century coexists with centuries of history.
Neighborhoods to know
Connaught Place
The heart of New Delhi, this commercial hub features Georgian-style architecture and radiates outward in concentric circles. It's packed with shops, restaurants, cafes, and offices. Best visited during the day for shopping or in the evening for dining and people-watching. Expect mid-range to high prices for goods and services. It's a good starting point to get a feel for the city's commercial pulse.
Lodhi Art District
This neighborhood transforms drab walls into vibrant canvases, showcasing large-scale murals by Indian and international artists. It's a unique urban art gallery. Best explored on foot, especially in the cooler mornings or late afternoons. It’s a refreshing contrast to the historical sites and offers excellent photo opportunities. Prices here are related to art appreciation rather than consumer goods.
Hauz Khas Village
Perched above a reservoir, this area blends historical ruins—a 14th-century fort and mosque—with trendy boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. It's a popular spot for young Delhiites and expats, particularly in the evenings. Explore the ruins during daylight and then enjoy dinner or drinks. Prices are generally mid-range to upscale.
Karol Bagh
A bustling commercial and residential area, known for its wholesale markets, particularly for textiles, jewelry, and electronics. It offers a more local, less polished experience than Connaught Place. Best for budget shopping and experiencing daily life. Visit during the day. Prices are very competitive, especially if you bargain well.
Defence Colony
A more upscale residential area with a popular market at its center. The market offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to more refined restaurants, alongside small shops. It’s a pleasant place for an evening stroll and dinner, attracting a local, affluent crowd. Prices tend to be on the higher side.
Top attractions
Humayun's Tomb
A magnificent 16th-century precursor to the Taj Mahal, this UNESCO World Heritage site showcases early Mughal architecture. Wander through the gardens and admire the symmetrical design. Entry fee is approximately 10 EUR for foreigners. Visit early morning to avoid crowds and the heat. Allow at least 1.5 hours.
India Gate
A grand archway commemorating Indian soldiers, set amidst sprawling lawns. It's a popular spot for evening picnics and strolls. Free to visit. Best experienced in the late afternoon or evening when it's illuminated. Can be very crowded, especially on weekends.
Qutub Minar Complex
Another UNESCO site, featuring the towering Qutub Minar, an impressive red sandstone minaret, and ancient ruins. Entry fee is approximately 10 EUR for foreigners. Allocate 2 hours. Arrive near opening time (around 7:00 AM) to beat the heat and tour groups.
Lotus Temple
A striking modern architectural marvel, this Baháʼí House of Worship is open to all faiths. Its petal-shaped structure is serene and calming. Free entry, but expect queues. Best visited during daylight hours for photography. It's a place for quiet contemplation, not tours. Opens around 9:00 AM, closes around 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
Rashtrapati Bhavan
The official residence of the President of India. While entry into the main building requires prior booking and specific times, the surrounding gardens (Mughal Gardens) are often open to the public seasonally. Check official timings. Free to wander the exterior and nearby areas. A glimpse into the seat of power.
Agrasen ki Baoli
A 14th-century stepwell hidden amidst modern buildings near Connaught Place. Its intricate architecture offers a cool respite and a unique photographic subject. Free to enter. Best visited during daylight. Can get crowded with people taking photos.
When to go to New Delhi
The best time to visit New Delhi is during the cooler months, from October to March. October and November offer pleasant temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F) with minimal rain. December to February are cooler, with daytime highs around 20°C (68°F) and occasional chilly evenings dropping to 5-10°C (41-50°F). March starts to warm up significantly. Avoid the monsoon season from July to September, characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity, and the intense summer heat from April to June, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F). The peak tourist season aligns with the pleasant winter months.
Eating out
Dishes to try
- Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani): Tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy, often flavored with ginger, garlic, and spices. A globally popular Punjabi dish.
- Chole Bhature: A hearty combination of spicy chickpea curry (chole) served with fluffy, deep-fried bread (bhature). A common breakfast or lunch option, especially in North India.
- Dal Makhani: A slow-cooked lentil dish made with black lentils and kidney beans, enriched with butter and cream. It's a staple in North Indian cuisine, known for its creamy texture and deep flavor.
- Aloo Tikki: Spiced potato patties, shallow-fried until crisp, often served with chutneys and yogurt. A popular street food snack.
Where to eat
For an authentic street food experience, head to Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi (though technically adjacent to New Delhi's planning). Sample parathas at Paranthe Wali Gali or chaat from stalls like Natraj Dahi Bhalle Wala. In New Delhi itself, Connaught Place offers a spectrum from fine dining to casual cafes. Khan Market and Defence Colony Market offer more refined, mid-range to upscale dining options, often featuring diverse Indian and international cuisines. Expect street food to cost around 1-3 EUR per serving, while a mid-range meal might be 8-15 EUR.
Getting around
From the airport
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is well-connected. The Delhi Metro's Airport Express Line is the most efficient option, taking about 20-25 minutes to reach New Delhi station for roughly 1.50 EUR. Regular pre-paid taxis are available from official booths outside the terminals, costing around 8-12 EUR to central New Delhi, with a journey time of 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola are also readily available.
In the city
The Delhi Metro is extensive, clean, and affordable, connecting most major attractions and neighborhoods. A single journey ticket typically costs between 0.30 EUR and 1.50 EUR, depending on the distance. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are ubiquitous for shorter distances; always agree on the fare beforehand (expect to pay around 1-2 EUR for a short ride) or insist on using the meter. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Ola are very popular and offer competitive pricing compared to regular taxis. Walking is feasible within specific neighborhoods like Lodhi Art District or around India Gate, but distances between major sites can be significant.
Local culture & tips
First-time visitors are often struck by the sheer scale of activity and the juxtaposition of ancient and modern. Be prepared for crowds, especially at popular sites and markets. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). Bargaining is expected in markets, but not in fixed-price shops or restaurants. Tipping isn't mandatory but is appreciated for good service (around 5-10% in restaurants if a service charge isn't already included). Meal times are generally later than in some Western countries, with dinner often starting around 8:00 PM. While generally safe, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep valuables secure. Politely declining persistent vendors is usually sufficient.
How long to stay in New Delhi?
We recommend at least 7 days on site to enjoy New Delhi without rushing. Add 1-2 extra days if you're pairing it with another Asia stop. For a short city-break, 3 days already cover the highlights.
Quick facts
- AirportDEL
- RegionAsia
- CountryIN
Travel budget in New Delhi
New Delhi can cater to various budgets. A frugal traveler might spend around 20-25 EUR per day, staying in a basic guesthouse (10-15 EUR/night), eating street food or simple local eateries (5-8 EUR/day), and using the metro extensively (2-3 EUR/day). A standard budget, aligning with the estimated 29 EUR/day, would involve a mid-range hotel (18 EUR/night), a mix of local restaurants and street food (8 EUR/day), and metro/occasional auto-rickshaw rides (3 EUR/day). For a more comfortable experience, expect 50-70 EUR per day, with a hotel costing 30-40 EUR+, dining at nicer restaurants (20 EUR+), and using taxis or ride-sharing services more frequently.
Where to stay in New Delhi
Plan ~€18/night mid-range in New Delhi — central neighbourhood, double room with breakfast. To compare availability and real pricing for your dates, we send you straight to Booking.com with a pre-filled search.
🎒 Generate a packing list for New Delhi →
Other destinations in Asia
New Delhi pairs well with other cities in the same region. Add one or two to your itinerary to amortize the long-haul flight and mix up the experience.